KATHMANDU: Nepali migrant workers in Kuwait are facing a tragic ordeal, with 11 losing their lives and 40 others left in critical condition over the past four days after consuming illegally brewed toxic alcohol.
According to the Nepali Embassy in Kuwait, the incident took place in the Salmiya area, affecting Nepali, Indian, and other Asian workers. Kuwait’s Ministry of Health has confirmed that a total of 23 foreign workers have died in the incident.
Investigations revealed that the liquor contained methanol, a highly toxic industrial chemical.
More than 160 workers have fallen ill, with 31 reported to be in critical condition and currently on ventilator support.
Additionally, 51 patients are undergoing emergency kidney dialysis, while some victims have permanently lost their eyesight.
Kuwait strictly prohibits the production, sale, and consumption of alcohol, but underground operations continue to produce and distribute poor-quality liquor.
Authorities believe this illegal trade led to the deadly outbreak.
The Nepali Embassy has said it is actively coordinating with Kuwaiti authorities for the identification and treatment of Nepali victims.
Labor Attache Giriprasad Acharya stated that the embassy remains in close contact with the local community and the government to ensure necessary support.
Meanwhile, Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has instructed the embassy to coordinate with affected families and remain fully engaged in rescue and relief efforts.
